Japanese Animation
Hayao Miyazaki's Works and "Princess Mononoke"
Hayao Miyazaki is one of the greatest animators and directors in Japan. The interesting plots, compelling characters and breathtaking animation in his films have earned him international renown from critics as well as public recognition within Japan. Disney's commitment to introduce the films to the rest of the world will let more people appreciate the high-quality works Miyazaki has given us. Today, when we think of an action adventure story, we think of American movies. They use huge amount of money to create impressive scenes, and American heroes save the day. The Japanese just watch them. Since when have things become like this? Also, with the progress of digital technology, Hollywood action movies these days have more and more like a show. A highlight scene just for the sake of a highlight scene. It might give us temporary excitement, but could it truly move us? "Princess Mononoke", directed by Hayao Miyazaki, is an ambitious work which boldly challenges such a situation. The past Miyazaki movies such as "Nausica of the Valley of the Wind" and "Laputa: Castle in the sky" were adventure action movies. However, they were all fantasies with no nationality. The stage which Miyazaki has chosen for "Princess Mononoke" is indeed this "Japan". Can an action adventure story take place in Japan? This film, which required twice the time and money of the past Ghibli films, is a big entertainment historical adventure story made by the Japanese, which the Japanese movie industry has been long missing. "Princess Mononoke" received the Japan Academy Award for best film and was the highest-grossing domestic film in Japan' history. Now, his film "spirited away" showing is higher- grossing than "Princess mononoke". It is wonderful!!
Yoko
Last updated 6-Dec-2001